1997 Porsche 993 Cup RSR Coupe

In 1973, a competition Porsche 911 using the RSR moniker, was fitted with a normally aspirated 2.8-liter engine, upgraded brakes, modified suspension, and lightweight bodywork and intended to compete in the FIA's Group 4 category. The following year, a new three-liter RSR was developed, and would go on to dominate GT competition for nearly a decade.

A new RSR model was unveieled in 1993. It was based on the updated 964 series and powered by a 3.8-liter engine. Weight-saving features and chassis improvements were implemented, helping the 964 3.8 RSR achieve incredible success in international endurance and GT racing.

In 1996, the Cup 3.8 RSR was introduced, and were based on the 993 Carrera Cup chassis (code M001) and equipped with a specially prepared racing-specification 3.8-liter engine. These were true factory-built race cars, with their specifications and design inspired by the 993 Carrera Cup and GT2 models. They featured Turnwald front and rear spoilers, riveted GRP arch extensions, large center-lock BBS wheels, and a Spartan, race-ready cockpit. Three distinct 3.8-liter engines were made available for the RSR, ranging from the relatively mild M64/70 Cup racing engine to the IMSA-spec M64/80 engine.

Just 45 examples of the 993 Cup 3.8 RSR were built between 1996 and 1998, with an estimated 15 cars built for each model year.

This particular example was built in February of 1997 for the Japanese market. It was constructed as a European-specification model and fitted with the M64/75 engine designed for endurance racing and rated at 340 horsepower. The engine featured a resonance intake system, six intake plenums with separate throttle valves, a different camshaft profile, and no catalytic converters. The engine was mated to a type M50/34 close-ratio six-speed transaxle.

It left the factory finished in Firnweiss (Snow White) and equipped with a Premier 75-liter fuel cell, Matter roll-cage, Recaro racing bucket seats, Sabelt harnesses, and MOMO steering wheel.

It was delivered new to Mizwa Porsche in Tokyo. It was never entered in competition and remains in new, as-delivered condition, with less than 5,900 km on its odometer.

The car remained in Japan until it was purchased for the Jerry Seinfeld collection and imported into the United States under the EPA's racing exclusion.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2016